ESTA for the US: who needs it, cost, and avoiding agent sites
Visa Waiver Program passports need an approved ESTA before boarding a flight to the US. Apply only at esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
By Simvito · Reviewed
In this guide
Who needs one
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries visiting for up to 90 days, including the UK, most EU countries, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Taiwan (passports carrying a national ID number). Canadian citizens don't need an ESTA. Everyone else applies for a US visa.
Where and how much
- Apply on esta.cbp.dhs.gov or CBP's official ESTA mobile app. Sites charging much more than the official fee of about USD 40 are agents.
- Apply as soon as you start planning; CBP says applications can be submitted any time before travel.
- An approved ESTA is valid for two years, or until your passport expires if that's sooner. A new passport needs a new ESTA.
Chinese passports with a 10-year visa: EVUS
Holders of a People's Republic of China passport with a 10-year B1/B2 visa enrol in EVUS before travelling, on evus.gov, and keep the enrolment updated as the site requires.
Data when you land
Install a US eSIM before you fly, so ride apps and maps work from the gate. Some plans exit to the internet in the US; it's listed in each plan's details.